money exchange ATM or Banks
 

We would like to exchange colones for Dollars.Is better exchange rate bank or ATM machines?Or are they about the same.Seems like Dollar is dropping down against the Colon.

just checking

When we think we need a few colones, maybe $20 worth, we just get it at our hotel. Dollars are accepted almost everywhere. If you need colones as souveniers, use an ATM. Doing anything at a bank will be very time consuming.

Sorry. I assumed that you meant to submit dollars and recieve colones, and I answered accordingly. If you meant 'how do you get rid of the colones before you go home?' the advice is to avoid getting too many in the first place. If you end up with tons of colones, just come back again.

I always make sure I come with about $50 in colones. It assures me a trip back as my husband would not want the $$ to go to waste! :)

Most everywhere takes US but making change can be a challenge at small businesses - sodas, tiny grocery stores, etc. That is why it is nice to hold onto small colones - coin and bills. I use my debit card at ATM's and they typically offer cash in dollars or colones. No lines and security is usually standing right there. Apparently in some areas, the machines get emptied on weekends or at busy times so plan ahead a bit. If you need to do business inside at the bank, make sure you have your passport and plenty of time.

jilkovina, other than street vendors, I only shopped at one place (a farily nice restaurant) that didn't take credit cards.

Use you card as much as possible and get the best exchange rate.

Keith